Tidal energy company GKinetic Energy Ltd, Ireland, has been developing a unique technology for ‘off grid’ locations around the world to develop its first commercial device after the successful completion of its prototype testing programme. “GKinetic will develop its first 25kW commercial device after its 8kW unit generated outputs ‘above international industry standards’,” said the company. The device will be capable of generating enough electricity to power up to 15 homes.
The GKinetic device, which will replace dirty fuels like diesel, operates in rivers and its differentiator is that its turbines – placed at either side of a vertical cylinder – exploit the natural phenomena that occurs when water accelerates around an obstacle. Research shows that the power available through this acceleration is twice that of natural water flow. The compact design and size of the GKinetic device also means that it is easily deployed in rivers, operating in depths as shallow as 2m and widths of 3m.
This means remote, off-grid communities in locations such as Canada, Siberia, Polynesia and a host of African, and South American nations, now having the option of this ground-breaking, green solution for their energy requirements. Its 8kW prototype has been successfully tested at the Shannon Foynes Port Company (SFPC) operated Limerick Docks for the past year. The 25kW device will also be tested at Limerick Docks prior to being deployed at certified river or estuary test sites.
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Tidal prototype
VATIS UPDATE Part
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